Komárno
the place where Hungary meets Slovakia
One of the places where you can “officially” leave Hungary, is the Erzsébet-bridge between Komárom in Hungary and Komárno in Slovakia. It was built in 1892 an is named after Romy Schneider Empress Elisabeth of Austria, because we Hungarians have always loved our Sisi, even during her lifetime, which is a rare phenomenon and is not very characteristic for the Hungarian collective spirit. Usually we first appreciate people after their death (if at all, haha). While it’ s definitely not the most charming spot on Earth or even in Hungary, it’s still a border, and I love borders. So here is a guide on how to cross them.
1. Walk up to the bridge.
2. Keep walking.
3. Look back at Hungary (yes, I did shop at that Tesco. I was that hungry).
4. Admire the Danube (not a particularly breathtaking sight for somebody who is such a mountain person like me but, in my opinion, the second best thing after mountains is water, so I’m okay with this less than exciting view).
4. Walk until the middle of the bridge.
5. Look down.
6. Look up. Welcome in Slovakia!